Caretaker Minister for Information, Broadcasting, and Parliamentary Affairs, Murtaza Solangi, stated on Sunday that the Joint Investigation Team (JIT) is actively investigating the "malicious campaign" against the top judiciary on social media, adhering to the law.
During a news conference with officials from FIA, PTA, and other relevant institutions, the minister informed that the JIT was established on January 16 to probe the anti-judiciary campaign on social media platforms.
Solangi disclosed that the JIT's first meeting occurred on January 17, followed by a second meeting on January 23. The investigation process is still ongoing, he added.
Up to now, 600 social media accounts have been scrutinized, and around 100 inquiries have been registered, the minister reported.
Notices have been issued to 110 individuals, including 32 journalists and 22 politicians and political workers. Solangi emphasized that these notices were served in compliance with the law, dismissing reports of harassment of journalists related to the "malicious campaign" against top judges.
He clarified that, so far, no First Investigation Report (FIR) has been lodged, and no arrests have been made in connection with this matter. Solangi reiterated that the law would take its course, and actions against those involved in the campaign against the judiciary would follow legal procedures.
Responding to a question, he mentioned reasonable restrictions on freedom of expression and highlighted that the law prohibits campaigns against the judiciary and armed forces. Solangi stressed the distinction between criticism and character assassination, stating that the recent actions on social media against the judges do not fall under the pretext of criticism.
Regarding the caretaker government's role, he noted that it can only take measures within its mandate, and legislative actions are the responsibility of the Parliament, which currently lacks a lower house.
Solangi dismissed the notion of a witch-hunt under the guise of the JIT, emphasizing that nobody has been detained since the JIT's formation. He noted a significant decrease in the intensity of the malicious campaign since the JIT began its work.
FIA Director General Ishaq Jahangir added that notices were served to allow the identified individuals an opportunity to present their version of the issue, clarifying that not every notice leads to an FIR.
